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[Page 81]Charisma is a quality that may be attributed to an individual based on that individual’s behavior and the situation that the individual is in. This entry provides an overview of charisma, describes conceptualizations of charisma, explains to whom and when charisma is attributed, clarifies the importance of charisma, elaborates on how charisma works, and concludes with some trends in charisma research.

Overview

Charisma is not a quality inherent to an individual; rather, it is those around who recognize and confer charisma upon that individual and who can withdraw this attribution if that individual is no longer seen as deserving. To elicit charisma attribution, individuals can engage in distinct behaviors. Such behaviors include crafting a compelling vision, giving stirring speeches, exuding optimism even in the face of ...